When Should You See A Podiatrist For Plantar Fasciitis?

Heel pain can be a common nuisance, but for some, it may signal a chronic condition known as plantar fasciitis. If you’re experiencing ongoing heel pain, especially after periods of rest or first thing in the morning, it may be time to consult a podiatrist. Today, in this guide, we will share the most common sign that shows you need to see experts, and we will also reveal how they will help.

At Proactive Wellbeing Clinic, we specialise in identifying and treating plantar fasciitis, helping people in Kent get back to an active and pain-free lifestyle. To learn more or book an assessment, contact our podiatry team on 01634 723 600 or email us at today.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the base of the toes. This tissue supports the foot’s arch, providing stability and shock absorption. However, excessive strain, high-impact activities, or other factors can lead to small tears in the tissue, which causes inflammation and pain.

The condition is particularly common in runners, athletes, and people who stand for prolonged periods, but anyone can develop plantar fasciitis. If left untreated, this pain can worsen and significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to walk, exercise, or even stand comfortably.

Common Signs And Symptoms Of Plantar Fasciitis That Show You Need A Podiatrist

Recognising the early symptoms of plantar fasciitis can prevent the condition from becoming chronic. Here are the key signs that it might be time to see a podiatrist:

Sign 1: Persistent Heel Pain

The hallmark of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel or arch, which may lessen with movement but tends to return after rest or prolonged activity. If this pain becomes a recurring issue, consulting a podiatrist is recommended for a proper diagnosis.

Sign 2: Morning Pain And Pain After Rest

Many people with plantar fasciitis experience sharp pain in the bottom of the foot upon waking up or after sitting for long periods. The plantar fascia tightens during rest, causing pain when it’s suddenly stretched with movement.

Sign 3: Burning Or Tingling Sensation In The Foot

Some individuals report a burning or tingling sensation on the sole, a sign that the plantar fascia is under excessive stress or that nearby nerves may be irritated. These sensations often accompany inflammation and can be relieved with treatment.

Sign 4: Pain When Flexing The Foot

If flexing your foot upward (dorsiflexion) causes pain, especially if you feel tightness in the calf muscles or Achilles tendon, it’s a common indicator of plantar fasciitis. High arches or flat feet can worsen this discomfort as they place more strain on the plantar fascia.

If you’re noticing any plantar fasciitis symptoms, consider scheduling an evaluation with a podiatrist at Proactive Wellbeing Clinic.

How A Podiatrist At Proactive Wellbeing Clinic Can Help Treat Plantar Fasciitis

Treating plantar fasciitis involves addressing the root cause and finding effective ways to relieve pain. At Proactive Wellbeing Clinic in Kent, our podiatry specialists offer a comprehensive range of plantar fasciitis treatments to meet each patient’s unique needs. Here’s how our specialist can help:

1. Custom Orthotics For Support And Pain Relief

Custom orthotics are one of the most effective ways to treat plantar fasciitis. These specially designed insoles provide precise arch support, helping to redistribute pressure across the foot and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Custom orthotics are tailored to your unique foot structure, making them more effective than generic insoles in providing lasting relief from heel pain and discomfort, especially for individuals with high arches or flat feet.

2. Targeted Stretching And Strengthening Exercises

Our podiatrists will recommend targeted stretching exercises to loosen the tightness in the plantar fascia and calf muscles, often the source of pain. When done regularly, these exercises help reduce tension, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles that support the feet, helping to prevent future flare-ups and reducing overall strain on the fascia.

3. Night Splints For Continuous Stretching

We may recommend night splints to alleviate morning pain, which is common in plantar fasciitis. These devices keep the foot slightly dorsiflexed while you sleep, ensuring that the plantar fascia remains stretched overnight. This continuous stretching helps reduce the pain and tightness that often accompanies the day’s first steps, providing relief and improving mobility.

4. Advanced Therapies And Pain Management

For patients with chronic plantar fasciitis, we offer advanced plantar fasciitis treatments, such as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), which uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the plantar fascia. Additionally, our pain management options can provide temporary relief and reduce inflammation while we focus on the underlying causes of your foot pain.

At Proactive Wellbeing Clinic, we’re dedicated to creating individualised treatment plans that address plantar fasciitis’s symptoms and underlying causes so you can achieve long-term relief and return to normal activities at an affordable price.

Call us on 01634 723 600 or email us at for more details today.

FAQs

1. How can you permanently get rid of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis can be effectively managed, but long-term relief often requires a combination of treatments such as custom orthotics, consistent stretching, and lifestyle adjustments. Our podiatrists in Kent can provide a comprehensive treatment plan to help you achieve lasting results.

2. What is the fastest cure for plantar fasciitis?

While there is no fast way, rest, ice, stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and custom orthotics can relieve pain and inflammation. In severe cases, treatments like corticosteroid injections or shockwave therapy may be recommended.

3. Can plantar fasciitis be cured in the UK?

Yes, plantar fasciitis can be successfully managed and often fully resolved with treatments available in the UK. At Proactive Wellbeing Clinic, our approach combines expert diagnostics and customised care to deliver effective results for our patients.

4. Can I live a normal life with plantar fasciitis?

Yes, with proper treatment and regular care, most individuals can comfortably manage their plantar fasciitis and resume their daily routines. By following a personalised treatment plan, you can reduce pain and prevent the condition from worsening.